IS IT MY FAULT?

If you have been sexually assaulted, then you have asked yourself if it was your fault. And the answer is – NO.

No matter where you were or what you were doing, you never deserve to be touched inappropriately, forced to do anything sexually or threatened in any way. It is wrong for anyone, even if it is someone you know, to hurt you or violate you.

After being abused, it is common to feel guilt, shame, anger, hurt, embarrassment, depression or worthlessness. You may even feel like your life will never be the same. It may be hard to return to “normal.” If you are experiencing any of these emotions then please know that there is hope for you. You may be a victim of sexual violence, but it does not have to define your life. You can move forward.

Find someone trusted – a parent, friend, teacher, social worker, family member, youth worker – and share your story. The truth is that you are not alone and you don’t need to be embarrassed to get help.

You are unique, beautiful and extremely valuable. Even though you may not feel that way right now, it is the truth and you need to remind yourself that no matter what happened to you, that fact has not changed.

Many women, including me, have dealt with all the emotions that are associated with sexual abuse or rape and have found that those emotions do not have to dictate your life. You can be successful, have positive relationships and go on to do great things with your life.

The most important thing you can do for yourself is to talk to a trained professional that can help you deal with all the emotions and pain. As you go through that journey, you will find that there is healing and you can move forward with your life.

I am proof of that healing and have been able to use my story to help many girls, just like you, through UNBREAK ME.

If you need a place to start, go to the Help Me page. You’ll find links to local and national hotlines and online 24-hour confidential help. Don’t wait – get help today.